A Peek at New River Cruises From National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

Beginning in early 2026, your clients can explore Europe’s most scenic waterways from a new perspective with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. They’ll sail in luxurious comfort aboard the 120-guest Connect, a brand-new river ship rooted in sustainable design, as they take in sweeping storybook views along the Rhine River Valley or wind through the charming canals and tributaries of Belgium and the Netherlands.

Constructed in 2025, Connect is a brand-new, state-of-the-art European river ship joining the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet next year. With cutting-edge technology, luxurious amenities and wrap-around picture windows, this sleek 120-guest ship is uniquely designed to sail through the heart of storied destinations in Germany, France, The Netherlands and beyond. Sustainability and regional connection are at her core, creating a refined and meaningful experience that elevates every journey.

Gravensteen, the 12th-century “Castle of the Counts,” stands illuminated above Sint-Veerleplein in Ghent’s historic center—once a medieval marketplace and now a lively city square. Learn more about the two new European Rivers voyages available through National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions at expeditions.com/destinations/europe-rivers

Once a pivotal WWII battleground, Arnhem today welcomes visitors with charming streetscapes and a rich mix of history, architecture and modern Dutch life. Your clients can explore more with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions on the Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways itinerary.

Often called the “Dutch Venice,” Giethoorn’s tranquil canals, arched wooden bridges and thatched-roof cottages make it a dream setting for photographers. Each departure of Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways is staffed with an expedition leader, historian, a cultural expert and a certified photography instructor to help your clients capture the best shots.

A quintessential Dutch landscape unfolds at Zaanse Schans, where colorful tulip fields and centuries-old windmills capture the spirit of the Netherlands. (Spring departures only.)

A storybook blend of French and German influences, Strasbourg’s timber-framed houses and canals define the charm of Alsace’s historic capital. Your clients can experience it from a unique perspective - through the lens of National Geographic.

 

With its hilltop castle, baroque old town and riverside setting, Heidelberg offers one of Germany’s most romantic and picturesque cityscapes. Your clients will dine at a local brewery with university students, discovering what daily life is like at one of Germany’s oldest academic institutions.

A center of culture since Roman times, Mainz charms with its half-timbered houses and vibrant market squares. On a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions tour of the renowned Gutenberg Museum, which is dedicated to the revolutionary history of printing, your clients will witness original copies of Gutenberg’s Bible, along with demonstrations of centuries-old printing techniques.   

Bathed in golden light against the darkened hills of the Rhine Gorge, Rheinstein Castle glows with medieval grandeur above the river near Trechtingshausen. National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions guests will enjoy exclusive access and a champagne reception hosted by the castle's Lord.

Your clients will sail through the majestic Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the romantic Rheinstein Castle where they’ll be invited to an exclusive champagne reception hosted by the castle’s Lord.